A free gingival graft is a dental procedure designed to increase the amount of gum tissue supporting a tooth. Gum disease, genetics and improper oral hygiene can lead to the loss of gum tissue. A receding gum line can cause a number of problems for your mouth. Not only can it make a smile less attractive but it has serious repercussions on your oral health. Receding gums can cause root exposure of the tooth that can make teeth extremely sensitive. As the gum tissue disappears the supporting structure of the tooth can disappear, which, leads to tooth loss.
The gums play a vital role in your mouth and the loss of gum tissue can cause serious oral health problems. A free gingivial graft works to prevent these problems by replacing the lost gum tissue and preventing future loss. There are basically two types of this procedure, a submarignal graft and a root coverage graft. A submarginal graft is not really designed to replace lost gum tissue so much as prevent further loss and protect the underlying bone. As gum tissue can disappear so can the bone. Not only can this cause tooth loss but it can weaken the jaw as well.
The other type of free gingival graft is the root coverage graft. This has a number of advantages as it can also enhance the appearance of the tooth while improving health. Actually there are several methods for the root coverage graft. The most common method is the Connective Tissue graft. Generally an underlying layer of gum tissue from the top of your mouth is removed and the placed over the exposed root of the tooth and grafted on. Another method is to use donor tissue from a cadaver. While this may sound odd it can have great results.
If you are would like to learn more about a free gingival graft procedure, and would like to speak with a dentist, please consider visiting the Atlanta Dental Group PC. Improper brushing can cause damage like a receding gum line and cause be as bad as not brushing at all in some cases. Our Atlanta dentists have over 45 years of combined experience serving Atlanta's dental needs. Our dentists in Georgia are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being and you are more than welcome to join our family of patients. Our Atlanta DDS enjoys working with and helping his patients. If you would like schedule an free dental consultation appointment with Atlanta dentist, call our office at to make an appointment at 404-874-7428.